Charismatic Churches and the Pentecostalization of African Christianity

Abstract

This chapter articulates how African Pentecostalism emerged as a form of dissent, and formed many different kinds of independent churches, new denominations, and movements of renewal within older churches. In particular it traces those characteristics of dissent that are found in the independent Charismatic churches since the 1970s, and how these have impacted African Christianity as a whole, including Catholic and Protestant churches. It gives examples in turn from West Africa, East Africa, and Southern Africa, and critiques the ‘Prosperity Gospel’ that is often a central part of these churches’ appeal. It concludes with a summary of how these churches characterize new forms of dissent.